The Japanese Covered Bridge is one of the famous tourist attractions in Hoi An, Vietnam. Visit Hoi An Old Town, you just don’t want to miss this Bridge. This topic is help you to how to have a great experience in The Japanese Covered Bridge.
(The Japanese Covered Bridge)
1. Location and History
The Japanese Covered Bridge is located at the west end of Tran Phu Street in Hoi An, Viet Nam. The bridge connects Tran Phu Street with Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street.
(Bridge in the night)
It was built in the early seventeenth century by the Japanese community to link them with the Chinese quarters. The Japanese Covered Bridge was opened by Nguyen Phuc Chu Lord who carved three Chinese symbols above the door in commemoration. It underwent renovation work in 1986 which saw the restoration of the arch that was once flattened to make way for cars.
2. What to see
The Bridge is a beautiful example of the Japanese architecture of the period. It is made of wood, approximately 18 meters, with a roof. The Bridge is also decorative and is covered with ornate carvings depicting animals. Above the door of The Japanese Covered Bridge, it carved prominently 3 Chinese characters: “Lai Vien Kieu” (Bridge for passengers by from Afar).
(Entrance of Bridge)
The entrances to The Japanese Covered Bridge are guarded by weathered statues: a pair of monkeys on one side, a pair of dogs on the other. These two animals are symbol of holiness in Japanese culture. Another reason behind these animal sculptures is that according to the Asian zodiac signs, many of Japan’s emperors were born in the years of the dog and monkey. Records also say that the construction of the bridge was started in the year of the monkey and was finished in the year of the dog.
(Dog in Bridge)
(Monkey in Bridge)
Inside the bridge lies a temple of the northern God Tran Vo Bac De, who is considered the God of Weather. People of Hoi An believe that this God controls all kinds of weather changes and natural calamities.
(Inside the Bridge)
(A temple of the northern God Tran Vo Bac De)
3. How to get
This place is free tickets. Tourists can walk to here after visit Hoi An Old Town.
Hiring a bike to visit around Hoi An Old Town is highly recommended, since the town is so small and there’s no need to worry about the traffic.
Should you have any questions or need assistance in your travel plans, feel free to contact us.
